Black Poplar

Black Poplar - "The Dark Italian"

AKA Velvet Pioppino, the tea-tree mushroom.

Yes, they taste just as good as they look.

You’re going to have to get comfortable with beaded brow and sweat stain inducing humidity to grow these. Around 95% humidity to be exact, but don’t worry it won’t be that bad as The Dark Italian typically fruits in shaded temperatures ranging from 60 to 64 degrees Fahrenheit. While they’re typically grown on and around Poplar trees, you can also use a mix of hardwood chips and sawdust, or even a tree stump. Either way your efforts will be rewarded with a slightly sweet and uniquely robust flavored mushroom. Just be sure that while they’re growing they’re kept in a shaded area, think of it as adding a layer of mystique to your garden.


  • Scientific Name:  Agaricus aegerita
  • Common Names: Black Poplar or Pioppino
  • Health Highlights: Just as with other species of mushrooms The Dark Italian offers a plethora of health benefits that include: 

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    • High amounts of vitamin B and Copper
    • Has antiseptic, antifungal, antioxidant, anti-cancer, cholesterol lowering, and anti-inflammatory properties. 
    • Rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals such as folate, biotin, niacin, selenium, potassium, and riboflavin.